Welcome For Beef Labelling Consultation
16/11/05

NFU Scotland has warmly welcomed the publication of proposals to require beef sold in restaurants and other food outlets to be clearly labelled with the country of origin.

NFUS has consistently argued that the desire of consumers to know the origin of the food they buy is not reflected in labelling laws. As well as extending the labelling system to the food service sector, NFUS believes this consultation also provides an opportunity to look at existing loopholes in the labelling system.

NFUS Vice President Bob Howat said:

"We produce world class beef in this country to the highest food quality, animal welfare and environmental standards. Consumers are increasingly aware of that, but without clear labelling at all food outlets, they can struggle to identify locally-produced beef.

"We have been outside supermarkets and on the streets speaking to consumers in recent months. Their support for Scottish produce has come across loud and clear. However, some have been buying beef in supermarkets and restaurants mistakenly presuming it to be produced and reared in Scotland.

"The extension of the labelling system to the food service sector, beyond just retail outlets, would be a huge step forward.

"However, I also believe that whilst the legislative book on labelling is open, we must use it as an opportunity to look at the loopholes in the current system. The current beef labelling rules cover fresh, raw beef sold in retail outlets. It doesn't cover processed beef. Because the definition of processed beef is extremely wide, including fresh mince, many retailers can circumvent the rules. If we tidy that up, as well as extending the scope of the rules, consumers and the beef industry will benefit.

"Of course in the longer term, we would like to see clear labelling on all Scottish produce to ensure the good work of local food industry can benefit from growing consumer support and awareness."

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